Importance of Attending
Submitting the FAFSA is the first and most important step in getting aid for college (i.e. grants, scholarships, work-study, and student loans). You should attend a College Goal Sunday program in your area so you can get assistance from financial aid professionals with filling out your FAFSA. Financial aid administrators will go over each line of the FAFSA in-depth, and you will have the opportunity to ask specific questions. You will also be informed of all filing deadlines. It is crucial to submit your FAFSA as soon as possible, so you won't miss out on potential aid.

When and Where
College Goal Sunday programs are held during financial aid season. Most states offer the program in February. There are some states that offer the program on Saturdays or even on weekdays. Many states also offer the program at several different locations. Click here to see if/when/where your state is offering a College Goal Sunday program.

Registration
While many states do not require pre-registration, some states ask that students register to attend College Goal Sunday so administrators can provide the best possible service to students and parents. Visit collegegoalsundayusa.org to begin the registration process. Once you are on the College Goal Sunday site for your specific state, look for a student registration link to register for the program at a location near you.

Materials to Bring
To make the process flow smoothly, be sure to bring the following with you on the day of the program:

Records and documentation of other untaxed income received (i.e. welfare benefits, Social Security income, veteran's benefits, etc.)

Records of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other investments

Current mortgage information

Business or farm records (if applicable)

Documentation that you are a U.S. permanent resident or other eligible noncitizen

Federal Student Aid PIN number if you plan on filling out the FAFSA online at the event (apply for your PIN at pin.ed.gov)

College Goal Sunday is sponsored by the Lumina Foundation for Education, and with the help of various agencies, this program should be offered to residents of every state in the near future. If your state does not offer a College Goal Sunday program or you are unable to attend, contact the Financial Aid Office at the school you plan to attend for resources or help filling out the FAFSA.

The College Goal SundaySM program was created by the Indiana Student Financial Aid Association with funding from Lilly Endowment, Inc. and with supplemental support from Lumina Foundation for Education.